The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has issued multiple flood warnings as the country prepares for high winds and rain.
The warnings, indicating “flooding is expected, immediate action required”, cover parts of Argyll and Bute, Ayrshire and Arran, west central Scotland and Tayside.
A related amber warning of severe gales has been issued by the Met Office.
Gusts could reach about 90mph in exposed areas.
Western Scotland and the Western Isles are expected to be most affected.
The alert, which applies from 21:00 on Wednesday to 08:00 on Thursday, said the winds could lead to “very high waves” and would be accompanied by heavy rain.
Forecasters said the public should be prepared for disruption to transport and possibly power supplies.
The strongest winds and rain are expected to clear early on Thursday, giving way to blustery and wintry showers.
Flooding
A key concern is over low-lying coastal areas, which could experience a tidal surge.
High tide in Helensburgh, Largs, Dumbarton, Gourock, Greenock and Renfrew will be between 00:45 and 01:45 on Thursday.
The danger for Oban will be at its greatest between 04:30 and 06:30.
In addition to the flood warnings, Sepa has issued flood alerts covering Caithness and Sutherland, Skye and Lochaber, Orkney, Shetland, Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders.
BBC Scotland weather presenter Judith Ralston said: “Some very wet and very windy weather will affect most places this evening.
“A very deep area of low pressure will journey northwards towards Iceland running parallel with the west coast during this evening and tonight. It will generate severe gales.”
She added: “The intense winds will be for a short spell initially – in the southwest early evening, northwest and the far north later tonight.”
Transport Scotland said preparations were being made to cope with any travel disruption.
Traffic Scotland Operator Manager Stein Connelly said: “The Met Office is telling us that the North West Highlands and Western Isles are likely to face disruption due to the strong winds this evening and into Thursday.
“We would advise people in these areas to prepare for some travel disruption and to allow extra time for their journeys. They should also check the relevant websites for up to date travel information.
“Transport Scotland is in regular contact with The Met Office, Police Scotland, operating companies and Network Rail as well as the ferry operators and will activate our Multi Agency Response Team through the night to cover the morning peak to ensure the maximum response to any incidents caused by the high winds.”
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25429528